It is considered that the best form of treatment for you is to remove the diseased part of your oesophagus. In some cases the entire tumour (and therefore the affected part of the oesophagus) can be removed by an operation, known as an oesophagectomy. It may be necessary to remove the valve at the bottom of the oesophagus, and also part of the stomach. When the tumour has been removed, the two ends of the oesophagus will be joined together. The site of the wounds depends on the position of the tumour in the oesophagus. You may require an abdominal wound (Laparotomy) and/or a wound in the side of your chest (Thoracotomy). Like all surgical procedures, an oesophagectomy carries an element of risk. This risk varies according to the type of operation and the individual patient. Your consultant will discuss this with you, so that you are fully informed about the risks and benefits of the procedure. If it is not possible to remove the whole tumour the doctor will discuss other forms of treatment with you, these can include radiotherapy and chemotherapy.